Darlene Reble

Yesterday, May 3, 2024, Dr. Elnor C. Roa, accompanied by delegates from MSU at Naawan including Prof. Renoir Abrea, Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension; Prof. Arleen Uy, Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development; Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan, Director for International Affairs and Linkages; Dr. Anabelle Dece Espadero, Secretary for the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension; and faculty researchers Dr. Fernand Fagutao and Ms. Sherley Ann Inocente, convened with representatives from the Institute of Chemistry (IoC) at Academia Sinica in Taiwan, led by Dr. David Tai-Wei Wu. The aim was to explore potential research collaborations, focusing primarily on joint research endeavors. While IoC is renowned for its groundbreaking research in biomacromolecules, batteries, liquid solar panels, and vaccines, the MSUN team emphasized their expertise in fisheries, marine science, and ongoing chemistry research on nanocatalysts. Despite differing research focuses, the discussions were productive and led to plans for future collaborations, including projects on fish disease vaccines, marine resource biochemistry, nanotechnology applications, and proteomics research. Both institutions agreed to develop proposals for submission to the MECO-TECO program, fostering collaboration among project leaders. The meeting concluded with initiatives such as faculty exchanges, PhD student opportunities, internships, and research assistant positions. During the visit, the MSUN team toured Academia Sinica’s laboratories, gaining valuable insights into its infrastructure, and engaging in productive discussions on infrastructure development at the National Biotechnology Research Park (NBRP). Hence, the visit marked significant progress in fostering university collaborations and strengthening international partnerships.

On May 29, 2024, the Office of International Affairs and Linkages, in collaboration with the Office of the Chancellor, spearheaded a Planning Workshop for the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking at the Office of the Chancellor Conference Room. This significant event welcomed distinguished speakers from our sister university, MSU-IIT, notably Dr. Gaudencio C. Petalcorin, Jr., Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, and Dr. Arnold C. Alguno, Director for Research. The workshop drew participation from various key offices pivotal to our campus’s internationalization efforts. Aligned with the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) vision of elevating Philippine universities to global excellence through internationalization, the workshop provided valuable insights. Dr. Petalcorin’s in-depth presentation on the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) captivated attendees and shed light on crucial aspects of global impact. Furthermore, Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa expressed sincere appreciation for the workshop, emphasizing its significance in advancing MSU at Naawan’s pursuit of THE World Ranking. Through this, the university remains committed to leveraging expert resources to bolster our internationalization initiatives further.

Today, March 19,2024, representatives from the Iligan City Polytechnic State College (ICPSC), formerly known as Iligan City National School of Fisheries, visited the institution seeking assistance and guidance in operationalizing its newly converted status, particularly in their plan to offer programs such as BS Fisheries, BS Agriculture, BS Agricultural Business. The delegation included Mr. Ronillo C. Apas Sr., School Principal, Ms. Grace D. Cabaron, Head Teacher, Ms. Alecia C. Diaz, and Ms. Megibeth O. Ladlad, along with representatives from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Region X, Mr. Elmer C. Lopez, and Ms. Rose Mae T. Lumasag. They warmly welcomed them, with Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Gergie A. Ambato, Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development Arleen B. Uy, Dr. Dan M. Arriesgado, SMFT Dean, Dr. Fernand F Fagutao, Department of Fisheries Science Chairperson, and SMFT Secretary Adzel Adrian G. Baldevieso in attendance. Together, they engaged in discussions and provided insights, particularly on the feasibility of offering a BS Fisheries program at ICPSC. Moreover, CHED Region X representatives meticulously reviewed the requirements for offering the program, ensuring compliance and adequacy. Dr. Roa raised pertinent questions regarding ICPSC’s commitment to the program, especially in areas where they may be lacking. As a center of excellence in Fisheries, Dr. Roa expressed the institution’s willingness to extend assistance and suggested establishing a Memorandum of Agreement to address any deficiencies, particularly in faculty expertise, and to help ICPSC achieve its goals. Through collaborative efforts and open dialogue, the institution aims to support ICPSC in its transition and ensure the successful implementation of quality programs. They look forward to further collaboration and the realization of shared objectives in advancing education and research in these vital fields.

On March 18, 2024, during the flag-raising ceremony, four students affiliated with the Animal Science Society within the College of Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Sciences (CAFES), namely Rain Heart Daligdig, Crystal Jane Degamon, Karl Freidrich Larot, and Manuel Jabagat, were duly recognized for their commendable achievement as the overall 2nd Runner-up in the recently concluded 9th Animal Science Quiz Contest, hosted at the University of the Philippines, Los Baños (UPLB). Furthermore, an additional award was given to Crystal Jane Degamon for being the champion in “PatalASSan ng Galing” Competition. Chancellor Dr. Elnor C. Roa has expressed profound satisfaction at the noteworthy accomplishment of the MSUN team in this esteemed competition, highlighting the huge pride and honor it brings to both the university and the CAFES, particularly in light of their international engagements. This distinguished award undoubtedly owes much to the invaluable mentorship provided by Assistant Professor Richelle A. Niepes. The Animal Science Society merits sincere congratulations for their exceptional performance, which stands as a beacon of inspiration to all members of the student body and faculty alike. This achievement reaffirms our unwavering dedication to excellence in education and research within the domains of agriculture, forestry, and environmental sciences. Read the news about the competition through: https://www.facebook.com/afesso.msun/posts/pfbid0JHDe5qpDM4DUqZpmhTUfpzkuCNKJJRSYJW54fJ5fYwYakQJua3PtYbCeJutiZMjgl